President and Chief Executive Officer
Demis joined CVNM in 2013 following two decades of work on environmental campaigns in the West. During her tenure, CVNM led efforts to elect the first pro-environment Latina Governor (Michelle Lujan Grisham) and Commissioner of Public Lands (Stephanie Garcia Richard). Other major accomplishments under her leadership include the passage of the historic Energy Transition Act that sets bold statewide renewable energy standards, establishes a pathway for a low-carbon energy transition, and provides support for workers and communities.
Demis and CVNM were awarded the John Hunting Award for the Environment by the League of Conservation Voters for leading on significant climate policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Demis and her team were also instrumental in developing an Executive Order to protect 30% of New Mexico’s lands and waters by 2030. More recently, CVNM led efforts to pass The Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, the first-ever dedicated source of recurring funding for conservation in the state.
Demis comes from a fifth-generation ranching family in Idaho where she developed a deep love and appreciation for the natural world that sustained her rural community. Before taking the helm at CVNM, she served as the Santa Fe Director for NM Wild. She moved to New Mexico from the Pacific Northwest where she worked on environmental campaigns, adventure and field science programs for youth, and directed the Hazel Wolf Environmental Film Festival featuring films from around the world. Based in Santa Fe, she enjoys skiing, hiking, and exploring the outdoors with her family and rescue dog.